The JET SKI® 1200 STX-R® is the thoroughbred of Kawasaki’s 2005 personal watercraft line. With its racing-inspired hull and numerous championship titles in International Jet Sports Boating Association racing, this runabout model provides the power, performance and exhilaration that can only come from a leading-edge Kawasaki design.

Beginning with the STX-R’s stable hull design, it provides a smooth ride and more precise cornering in the most intense racing conditions. The hull includes high-performance, racing-type sponsons and a racing-style pump cover to provide "grip" for more aggressive turning and quicker planing. Plus, the hull is made of hand-laid fiberglass and gel-coated for a deep, lustrous, scratch-resistant finish, and features the molded-in Kawasaki Splash Deflector (KSD) to help minimize spray on the rider.

Other major features include a 16.4-gallon fuel tank, which allows endurance racers more time between fill-ups, and Kawasaki Smart Steering®, the Kawasaki brand’s breakthrough steering system.

The Kawasaki Smart Steering system (KSS®) features a steering sensor that is electronically linked to an on-board microprocessor. If the handlebar is fully turned in either direction and the engine rpm drops from a designated rpm, such as when the throttle is released at speed, the microprocessor activates the KSS, which raises engine rpm to provide enough thrust to initiate the desired turn.

Power for the STX-R is adapted from the engine design of the championship-winning Ultra® 150 watercraft. The 1,176cc, three-cylinder, two-stroke engine has an intake manifold angled back 45 degrees to create a downdraft effect for the trio of high-flow, 40mm constant-velocity carburetors. A variable-speed oil pump reduces oil consumption and exhaust smoke, thereby increasing both power and efficiency.

The carburetors are linked to the digital Direct Current Capacitor Discharge Ignition (DC-CDI) system by the Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition control

(K-TRIC) throttle-position sensor. K-TRIC uses independent ignition timing maps for each cylinder based on engine speed and throttle opening to provide quick throttle response and acceleration.

To help ensure cooling capacity matches the high power output, each of the three aluminum cylinders has its own water jacket, as well as lightweight, wear-resistant Nikasil plating for maximum heat dissipation. Similar to other models in the JET SKI lineup, counter balancers are located at both ends of the crankshaft to eliminate vibration. The engine is also rubber-mounted in the hull for a comfortable, vibration-free ride with reduced structural noise.

To further enhance power output, the 1200 STX-R uses a water-jacketed exhaust system that separates cooling water from the expansion chamber, allowing exhaust gases to flow dry and free from power-robbing water vapor. The water insulation also helps to suppress engine noise and lower the temperature of the aluminum exhaust components for lower engine compartment temperatures.

Transferring power from the engine to the water is an axial-flow jet pump featuring a fully enclosed, three-blade oval-edge stainless steel impeller designed to "hook-up" in choppy water conditions. This efficient pump produces more thrust for quicker acceleration and higher top speed.

Ergonomic features include an aggressive seat contoured to fit the rider for better "grip" during fast turns, while the handlebars are located in a cab-forward position to provide plenty of room for the rider. Abundant floor space also provides room for the rider's feet with special high-grip mats included for better traction in race conditions.

Convenience features include water-resistant storage space and an easily accessible glove box. Riders can also monitor oil and fuel levels, as well as speed, engine rpm, trip distance and time on the easy-to-read LCD instrument panel. Warning lamps alert the rider to low oil level or high engine temperature, while a magnetic keyed ignition switch helps deter unauthorized use.